6 skincare tips that renowned dermatologists use themselves…

Dermatologists know a thing or two about skincare, that’s for sure. So what is their skin care regime? What tips do they swear by? Read on for inspiration to get skin a dermatologist would be proud of!

Pour on the Protection

To ensure she layers on enough sunscreen (“the best way to keep skin youthful”), dermatologist Lisa Garner, MD, president of the Women’s Dermatologic Society, fills the hollow of her palm (about 1/2 teaspoon) with a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to coat her face, neck, and ears. “I usually have to apply two coats to finish what I’ve squeezed out, but that’s how I make sure I’m covered.”

Eat a Skin-Saving Breakfast

The first meal of the day for New York City derm Doris Day, MD, includes almonds. “They contain essential fatty acids, which help put the brakes on inflammation that accelerates fine lines, sagging, and blotchiness.” Not feeling like a nut? Salmon, tuna, and halibut are good lunch/dinner sources.

Zen Your Skin

High levels of tension can spike hormone production that leads to breakouts or aggravates conditions like psoriasis. “Controlling stress keeps your skin calm—but that’s easier said than done,” says Annie Chiu, MD. Taking a 10-minute time-out to apply a face mask and relax on her bed works for Chiu. Another trick: Ban the ‘Berry. “I turn off my mobile phone after 8pm at night. Every little bit helps!” she says.

Pair Your Potions

“A ‘cross-training’ regimen is the key to rapid rejuvenation. Some ingredients—like sunscreen and antioxidants in the morning and retinoids and peptides at night—work better as a team,” says derm Mary Lupo, MD.

Develop a Bedside Manner

“I often find it difficult to stick to my anti-ageing regimen at bedtime,” says Francesca Fusco, MD. To avoid missing her evening routine, she stores these products in a pretty skincare case she keeps on her nightstand. “So if I’ve forgotten—or was just too tired to apply products at the sink—I can do it easily while in bed.”

Wear Your Veggies

Frozen peas help soothe itchy, irritated eyes for Jeanine Downie, MD. “Once I get home from work, I remove my skincare and put a bag of frozen peas on my lids for about 5 minutes.” The cold helps reduce swelling and pigmentation, a side effect of repeated irritation from her eczema. Unlike inflexible ice packs, a bag of peas easily conforms to the shape of the eyes for a faster effect.